Where to Spend Your Mile High Halloween

It's finally spooky season! Between the pumpkin spice, Halloween, and the cooler weather, fall is without a doubt one of the best seasons. Just like almost every holiday, Halloween comes with a ton of fun things to do in the Denver area. Grab the family, put on your costumes, and head to one of the fun events below!

Boo at the Zoo

Every October, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance puts on one of the best family Halloween events in the area, Boo at the Zoo. This timed, ticketed trick-or-treating experience runs across multiple dates and evenings throughout October, plus a sensory-friendly night on October 31. Kiddos can enjoy trick-or-treating stations, character meet-and-greets, live entertainment, and more. Tickets must be purchased in advance online — this event sells out, so plan ahead and check the current schedule and pricing on the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance website.

Glow at the Gardens

Looking for something unique to try with the kids this year? Denver Botanic Gardens' Glow at the Gardens is just that. Every jack-o'-lantern and larger-than-life sculpture is hand-carved from real, locally grown pumpkins — no foam "funkins" here. The event runs on select dates in late October, typically from 6-9pm, and includes an immersive illuminated path, live performers, and enchanted landscapes around every bend. This is one of Denver's most popular fall events and sells out weeks in advance, so grab timed tickets early on the Denver Botanic Gardens website.

BOOnion Station: Trick-or-Treat Parade

Denver's Union Station hosts its beloved BOOnion Station Trick-or-Treat Parade every October, and it remains completely FREE. Bring the kids for trick-or-treating, mini-train rides, balloon and face-paint artists, live entertainment, and a costume parade with prizes for best individual and best group costume. The event typically runs in the early evening on a weekday in late October — check Union Station's event calendar for this year's exact date and time.

FAQ

Do I need tickets in advance for these events?
Boo at the Zoo and Glow at the Gardens both require advance, timed tickets purchased online — neither sells tickets at the door, and both sell out. BOOnion Station at Union Station is free and doesn't require a ticket.

Are these events scary for young kids?
No — all three are designed to be family-friendly and appropriate for young children. Boo at the Zoo and Glow at the Gardens both note their events aren't intended to be frightening.

Is parking available at these events?
Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance and Denver Botanic Gardens both offer on-site parking, though it's limited and fills quickly on popular event nights — arrive early or consider public transit.

Can I bring my dog to any of these events?
Union Station typically hosts a separate pet-friendly Halloween parade around the same time as BOOnion Station — check their event calendar for details on both.